AI and Research Assignments Cohort
SMU Libraries is launching a new $1000 stipend for faculty interested in redesigning a research assignment for the age of AI, whether to address concerns with AI or integrate AI tools. A cohort of instructors, supported by SMU librarians, will explore how to promote student learning and research skills by designing or re-designing research assignments for their fall 2026 courses. The group will build strategies for teaching AI literacy, help students understand the appropriate use of AI in research, and ensure students develop critical thinking and reading skills in the age of AI.
The faculty cohort will meet in May to brainstorm and learn about AI literacy and SMU Libraries’ services. Results will be shared at the final cohort meeting in December. The cohort’s findings will be reported in a white paper published in the SMU Scholar Institutional Repository.
Application Process
The deadline to submit applications is April 26, 2026.
Eligibility
All full-time and part-time faculty members are eligible.
Expectations
- Attend a faculty session in May 2026 (more information to come)
- Implement a research assignment in a fall 2026 course that does one of the following:
- Incorporates AI literacy as an information skill
- Explores new ways of sharing the results of research besides written papers
- Takes an existing research assignment and redesigns it with AI in mind
- Attend debriefing sessions in December 2026 and report on the results of the assignment design (3 hours)
Selection Criteria
Up to 8 cohort members will be selected based on:
- The submitted proposal to design or redesign a research assignment with AI in mind for a fall 2026 course
- Applicant's availability to commit to 3 hours of meetings with the cohort
- A willingness to learn and share ideas – applicants are not expected to have all of the answers